All Forum Posts by: Eric Castelli

As a follow up to this thread, I ended up going with Codebox as suggested by Tracy Streich.  The box is solid and it has a simple online interface to generate 24-hour codes for showing.  There are a few things I don't like about the unit (no ability to generate multi-day codes, but for now I can use the vendor access code and give this out).  But, I suspect these features will be added in the future.  Overall, very happy with Codebox! 

Thanks Kimberly H!  I will check this out.  I will say that Codebox seems like it might meet my needs and just ordered one.  If it does what they say it does, it sounds like an awesome and cost effective solution.

Thanks,
Eric

Thanks Tracy Streich.  This looks like exactly what I need.  Much appreciated!

Eric

Thanks Steven Picker.  Do you happen to know which models might do this?

Has anyone used a Supra to show vacant units to prospective tenants or to allow trusted contractors access to a unit for repairs?  If so, what type of Supra unit do you use?  Ideally I could have one I could change the code on remotely, but I am not sure if something like this exists.  If you haven't used a Supra, why not?  I realize there is some risk here, but I would think it could be mostly mitigated by getting full background info on a prospective client prior to giving them the Supra code.  Also, I do acknowledge there's value in meeting a prospective tenant face-to-face, but this seems to be such a time suck.

Thanks in advance for any feedback you might have.

Congrats Megan.  Welcome to South Side STL investing!  

I haven't personally invested there but have looked.  I have heard that a lot of out of town investors buy there due to the cheaper prices but have also heard it's hard to find good tenants.  This is all second hand knowledge though.  One thing to keep in mind is that this is St. Clair county so taxes are definitely a lot higher vs the Missouri side.

Eric

I have heard good things about Strano property management in the Belleville area, but have never used them personally (I self manage).  Dandell Property Management is probably the biggest one but haven't heard good things about them (again, haven't used them personally).

Eric

Paul-

I own a duplex in Dutchtown and a duplex in Marine Villa (close to Dutchtown) and am looking to grow my portfolio in this general area. The tenant quality is not nearly what you would find in a Benton Park or Soulard, but I have been lucky to find good tenants. I have no problem filling units. Crime is definitely a concern for me, so I try to stay away from streets which I don't feel comfortable visiting myself (I self manage).

I am focused on cash flow and not appreciation and do not expect much if any appreciation in this area. Thus far my cash flow requirements are being met by my properties, although I leave a lot of room for repairs, capex, etc in my estimates.

Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Eric

Thanks @Chris Mason  Hadn't even considered the credit side of things.  Makes complete sense. Appreciate the heads up on this!

Eric